This type of abuse is persistent and chronic to the point that it damages the child causing:

severe anxiety;

depression;

withdrawal;

self-destructive behaviour; or

aggressive behaviour.

This type of abuse can be repeated attacks on a child’s self worth in the form of:

insults;

isolation;

rejecting;

unrealistic expectations;

constant criticism; or

terrorizing a child with threats of harm to others that they care about, or their pets.

Emotional abuse can occur when there's domestic violence in the family.

Physical abuse

Physical abuse is a deliberate assault that causes harm. It's not an accident, and can involve the use of force.

Types of force include:

slapping;

hitting;

punching;

shaking;

choking;

kicking; and

burning.

Physical abuse could be the result of excessive or inappropriate discipline and could include:

bruises;

burns;

welts;

broken bones;

fractures;

bite marks; or

scars.

Sexual abuse

Sexual abuse is any action that tries to involve a child in a sexual activity including:

sexual touching;

exposure;

using a child in the making of, or viewing pornography; and

involving a child in prostitution.

Neglect

Neglect is the failure to provide for a child’s basic needs, including:

enough food;

clothing; and

shelter.

Parents or guardians may:

be inattentive;

refuse to provide medical care;

not provide appropriate supervision;

not stop a youth from harming themselves or others; or

not ensure a child attends school.

Indicators of child abuse

When children show the effects of child abuse it's generally not seen in 1 behaviour. It can be a pattern of behaviours across time. The presence of a cluster of indicators might show the presence of child abuse.